9 Clever Litter Box Hacks for Small Apartments (Less Odor, Less Stress)
Living with a cat in a small apartment has its perks—but dealing with the litter box isn’t one of them. Tight spaces can make it tricky to find the right spot, control odors, and keep things tidy. These 9 clever litter box small apartment solutions are designed to help you and your cat coexist happily without sacrificing cleanliness or square footage.
1. Choose the Right Box for Small Spaces
Go for a compact, low-profile litter box that fits in tight corners or under furniture. Some are even designed to slide under a bench or inside a cabinet. Just make sure your cat can enter and exit comfortably.
2. Use a Litter Box Enclosure or Hidden Furniture
Stylish furniture pieces double as litter box hideaways—like side tables or benches with a cut-out entrance. They help keep the box discreet and minimize visual clutter in studio apartments.
3. Clean Daily—No Exceptions
In a small space, smells travel fast. Scoop the litter box once or twice a day to keep your apartment fresh. A covered trash can or self-sealing disposal bin nearby can make the process even easier.
4. Use Baking Soda or Odor-Absorbing Litter Additives
Sprinkling a layer of baking soda beneath the litter can help neutralize odors. Some cat litters also come with built-in odor control formulas—experiment to find one your cat likes.
5. Avoid the Kitchen (and the Bedroom, If Possible)
While you may be short on placement options, try to avoid keeping the litter box near food prep or sleep areas. If you must, use odor barriers and air purifiers to minimize smells and dust.
6. Place a Mat Underneath to Catch Litter Scatter
Use a textured litter mat to trap crumbs and dust before they reach your floor. This reduces tracking, keeps things cleaner, and saves you from daily vacuum duty.
7. Try Covered or Top-Entry Boxes (If Your Cat Approves)
Some cats love covered boxes for the privacy and odor control. Others refuse them. If your cat’s willing, top-entry or hooded boxes contain messes and save valuable space in cramped rooms.
8. Keep One Box Per Cat—Yes, Even in Apartments
The rule of thumb is one litter box per cat, plus one extra. In small apartments, even just one box per cat helps reduce accidents, stress, and territorial behavior. Use creative placement—closets, entryways, or bathrooms can work in a pinch.
9. Make the Litter Box Part of Enrichment
Some cats develop aversions to the litter box due to stress. Adding vertical shelves, window perches, and interactive toys around the home helps them feel more relaxed and less likely to act out. These tips can help you build a calm, cat-friendly home.
With the right setup, managing a litter box in a small apartment doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. These hacks make it easier to control odors, save space, and keep your cat comfortable—no matter how tight your floor plan may be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I put the litter box in a small apartment?
Try a bathroom, closet, entryway, or under a table—any low-traffic area with ventilation. Avoid placing it near your bed or in the kitchen.
How can I reduce litter box smell in a studio apartment?
Scoop at least once daily, change litter regularly, use baking soda or odor-neutralizing litter, and add ventilation or air purifiers if needed.
Do cats like covered litter boxes?
Some do, others don’t. Try both and see what your cat prefers. Covered boxes reduce odor and mess but may trap smells inside if not cleaned often.
What’s the best litter for odor control?
Clumping litters with activated charcoal or baking soda tend to perform best. Unscented options are often better tolerated by cats.
Join the Busy Pet Parent Newsletter!
Get easy routines, time-saving tips, and the latest gear reviews—delivered straight to your inbox.
Perfect for busy pet owners, apartment dwellers, and anyone who wants a happy, healthy companion (without the stress).
Exclusive guides & checklists
Product recommendations & deals
No spam—unsubscribe anytime!
